2004 ALUMNI RECIPIENTS

Melanie Martin, 30

Biggest achievement: At 21, I founded Distinctive Designs as a part-time business while continuing my studies and working full time. Today, it's one of Ottawa's most reputable residential design firms.

Best skill: Patience

Most admired businessperson: Donald Trump – You're Fired!, just kidding ...

Biggest business lesson learned: Manage people's expectations. To listen and understand what they are expecting from me and, in turn, to let them know what I am offering and to make sure they understand. If what I am offering does not meet their expectations, then I let them know right away and we come to a resolution, either a shift in expectations or offerings, or it might even be to not proceed. This is important to do at the beginning of relationships with clients, suppliers and staff, as well as during the relationship, since circumstances can change people's expectations and can affect what I am able to offer.

Favourite charity: The May Court Club (the Hospice)

Professional recognition that would mean the most: To host an informative interior design and decorating TV show.